Issue Position: Reducing Our Dependence on Foreign Oil

Issue Position

Like most Americans, I agree that our country must do more to achieve energy independence and to produce cleaner sources of energy. There are steps we need to implement over time to change the way we use energy and reduce our use of some types of carbon-based fuels. But the radical proposal being promoted by the President and liberals in Congress - known as "cap and trade" - would have disastrous consequences for both the producers and the consumers of energy.

If this misguided policy were to be adopted, it would cause the average family to pay more than $3,100 in additional energy costs each year. And the hardest hit will be low income families. Experts agree these families spend a greater percentage of their income on energy consumption than any other income category. So while every American family will pay more in energy expenses, struggling households will be disproportionally impacted.

Fortunately, there is a common sense alternative known as the American Energy Innovation Act. This approach promotes the use of cleaner energy resources, such as natural gas, reduces our dependence on foreign oil and encourages greater efficiency and conservation. In addition, this proposal creates jobs and promotes clean energy made by American workers without calling for tax increases. I am convinced that this is both the environmentally, as well as economically, responsible way to proceed.

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